Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker ordered all nonessential businesses across his state to close to fight the spread of the coronavirus.
The sweeping emergency restrictions, announced on Monday, will take effect Tuesday at noon.
“Effective Tuesday, March 24 at noon, all nonessential businesses shall close their physical workplaces and facilities to all workers, customers, and the public,” Baker said. “We will always allow all grocery stores, pharmacies, and other types of businesses that provide essential goods and services to Massachusetts residents to continue to operate.”
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The Republican governor stopped short of issuing a stay-at-home order.
“I do not believe I can or should order U.S. citizens to be confined to their homes for days on end. It doesn’t make sense from a public health point of view and it’s not realistic,” he said.
The state has reported 646 cases of the coronavirus, three deaths, and no recoveries.
President Trump announced on Sunday that he was activating the National Guard to help California, New York, and Washington treat the influx of people infected with the coronavirus. Trump is also sending thousands of hospital beds to each state, as the number of patients increases.
